Chicken Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy macaroni with the savory flavors of ranch seasoning, tender chicken, and crispy bacon. This rich and indulgent dish brings together everything you love in a hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole. The combination of gooey cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy ranch seasoning elevates traditional mac and cheese to a whole new level. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this dish is as satisfying as it is flavorful.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cheese and seasoning: Stir in the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Add the ranch seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the ingredients: Stir the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and crumbled bacon into the cheese sauce until everything is well coated.
- Bake (optional): For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your Chicken Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese warm.
This indulgent Chicken Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, making it a hit for any occasion!
